Fort Valley State University
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#166
Acceptance rate
65.9%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$16,878
In-state $5,526
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
2,699
Student-faculty ratio 21:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
21.7%
4-year; 6-year rate 45.5%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Fort Valley State University (FVSU), located in Fort Valley, Georgia, is a historically black university that is part of the University System of Georgia. Established in 1895, the university has a rich heritage and is dedicated to providing high-quality education to a diverse student body. One of the distinctive features of FVSU is its commitment to agricultural and environmental sciences, reflecting its historical roots. The university is known for its strong programs in areas such as veterinary technology, business administration, and teacher education, which prepare students for successful careers in various fields.
The campus culture at Fort Valley State University is vibrant and engaging, fostering a sense of community among students. With a motto of "The Future Starts Here," FVSU emphasizes the importance of leadership and service, encouraging students to get involved in various extracurricular activities, including athletics, student government, and cultural organizations. The university boasts modern facilities, including well-equipped classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces, which support a conducive learning environment. Additionally, FVSU's athletic programs are a point of pride, with numerous opportunities for students to participate in sports and maintain an active lifestyle. Overall, Fort Valley State University is dedicated to nurturing the academic and personal growth of its students, preparing them to excel in their future endeavors.
Analysis of Key Educational Indicators at Fort Valley State University
Fort Valley State University, as a public institution, has exhibited significant fluctuations in its tuition fees over the years. Notably, in 2014, the in-state tuition for undergraduates was approximately $6,438, which increased to $5,832 by 2024. This trend highlights a period of relative stability in tuition fees, particularly after a notable drop in 2016. Meanwhile, out-of-state tuition has seen a more variable trajectory, peaking at $18,640 in 2014 before gradually declining to $16,114 in 2024. This could reflect the university's attempts to attract a wider range of students by making education more financially accessible.
Another essential metric is the graduation rate. The timely graduation rate for undergraduates has shown an upward trend, increasing from about 15% in 2014 to nearly 18% in 2023. This upward movement is encouraging and may indicate improvements in student support services, curriculum relevance, or overall student engagement levels. The 150% graduation rate also improved, suggesting that students are increasingly completing their degrees, albeit not necessarily on time.
Retention rates have fluctuated but have generally remained around 67% to 78% between 2016 and 2023. The retention rate is crucial for understanding student satisfaction and institutional effectiveness. A consistent retention rate signifies that students are finding value in their educational experience and are less likely to transfer to other institutions.
Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduates reveals a predominance of female students, with women making up approximately 64% of the student body by 2023. This trend reflects broader patterns in higher education where female enrollment has outpaced male enrollment in many institutions.
In conclusion, Fort Valley State University has made strides in affordability and student outcomes, which are vital for its long-term sustainability and reputation. The institution's commitment to improving graduation rates and maintaining retention demonstrates a proactive approach to student success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Town near a city
- Nearest major city
- Atlanta, about 90 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), about 80 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Paul Jones, Ph.D (President)
- Phone
- 4788256315
- City
- Fort Valley, Georgia
- Address
- 1005 State University Dr, Fort Valley, GA 31030-4313
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 54.2%, women 50.6%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Fort Valley State University
The admission data for Fort Valley State University over the years reveals significant fluctuations in both male and female acceptance rates, as well as the overall enrollment numbers. In 2009, the male acceptance rate was approximately 44.7%, while the female rate was slightly lower at 42.9%. This trend of varying acceptance rates continued through the years, peaking in 2021 when the male acceptance rate soared to about 83.6%, and the female rate reached 67.0%. This spike in acceptance rates may reflect changes in university policies or an increase in available spots due to reduced applicant numbers during the pandemic.
Interestingly, enrollment numbers have also seen considerable changes. The highest recorded enrollment was in 2009, with 1,063 students, while the lowest was in 2015, with just 224 students. The university's acceptance rates and the number of students denied admission show a strong inverse correlation. For instance, in 2016, the acceptance rates dropped to approximately 22.2% for males and 19.4% for females, coinciding with a high number of applicants being denied.
As the data progresses towards 2023, the university has maintained a relatively stable acceptance rate around 44.7% for males and 42.8% for females. These trends highlight the competitive nature of admissions and the shifting landscape of higher education, particularly in light of recent global events that have impacted student enrollment and university operations. Understanding these trends is crucial for prospective students and the institution itself as it seeks to navigate future challenges.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 4% submitted SAT, 1% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Insights on Admission Test Scores at Fort Valley State University
The data from Fort Valley State University over the years reveals notable trends in standardized test scores and the percentage of applicants submitting these scores. From 2007 to 2023, there has been considerable fluctuation in both the number of test submissions and the corresponding scores. For instance, while the percentage of SAT submissions peaked at 78% in 2020 and 2021, it plummeted to only 25% by 2022 and 2023. This significant drop may indicate a shift in admissions policies or a change in student preferences for test-optional pathways, which has become a prevalent trend across many universities in recent years.
In terms of actual scores, the range of SAT reading and math scores has varied significantly, with a notable decline in the higher end of the score range towards the more recent years. For example, the upper quartile SAT reading scores dropped from 620 in 2007 to a low of 480 in 2022 and 2023. This trend may reflect broader educational challenges or shifts in the demographics of applicants.
Furthermore, the ACT scores exhibit a similar pattern, indicating that the overall academic preparedness of incoming students may be declining. This decline could have implications for the university's academic performance and reputation, as standardized test scores are often used as indicators of student success.
These trends highlight the ongoing discussions surrounding standardized testing in higher education, especially as institutions increasingly consider holistic admissions processes that evaluate a wider array of student qualities beyond test scores. As Fort Valley State University navigates these changes, it will be crucial to assess how these factors impact both student outcomes and institutional goals.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
5,201 applicants in 2025, 65.9% admitted
3,426 admitted 1,775 not admitted Yield 22.8%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's14 (0% international)
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions, Other · Master's10 (0% international)
- Biotechnology · Master's8 (100% international)
- Environmental Health · Master's8 (13% international)
- Animal Sciences, General · Master's6 (50% international)
- Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling/Counselor · Master's6 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Fort Valley State University
The graduation data from Fort Valley State University for the year 2023 reveals several interesting trends and highlights in various fields of study. Notably, the most significant number of graduates emerged from the fields of Psychology and Business Administration, with 32 and 30 graduates respectively. This reflects a growing interest among students in these disciplines, likely due to the increasing demand for professionals in mental health and business sectors.
Moreover, the healthcare-related fields, particularly in Mental and Social Health Services, produced a noteworthy number of master's graduates, totaling 24. This aligns with national trends where there is a pressing need for qualified personnel in health services, driven by the ongoing emphasis on mental health awareness and care in society.
On the other hand, fields such as Computer and Information Sciences and Engineering showed a more modest output of graduates. With only 15 graduates in Computer Science and 12 in Engineering, there might be a concern regarding the pipeline of talent in these crucial areas, especially as technology continues to evolve rapidly and influence various industries.
The data also highlights a complete absence of international students graduating in many disciplines. This could indicate a potential area for growth, as attracting international students could enrich the academic environment and diversify the student population.
Overall, the 2023 graduation statistics from Fort Valley State University suggest a robust interest in certain fields while also indicating areas that may require strategic attention to ensure a balanced and well-prepared workforce for the future.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Agricultural Economics. | - | ||
| Animal Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Horticultural Science. | - | ||
| Veterinary/Animal Health Technology/Technician and Veterinary Assistant. | $33,851 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $30,933 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | $65,715 | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | ||
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | - | ||
| Agricultural Teacher Education. | - | ||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $30,068 | ||
| Biotechnology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $43,011 | ||
| Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. | $43,011 | ||
| Organizational Leadership. | $43,011 | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $38,919 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions, Other. | $40,765 | ||
| Environmental Health. | $46,480 | ||
| Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling/Counselor. | $58,129 | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $35,054 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $40,023 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | $30,968 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $33,453 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician. | - | ||
| Engineering/Engineering-Related Technologies/Technicians, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
Students
2,897 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 33:67 · Freshman retention 78.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,807
- First-year undergraduates 753
- Graduate students 198
- Transfers and others 139
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,699)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Composition at Fort Valley State University in 2023
In 2023, Fort Valley State University showcases a diverse student body, with a total of 2,590 students categorized into four main groups: undergraduate freshmen, undergraduate seniors, undergraduate transfer students, and graduate students. The largest group is the undergraduate seniors, comprising 1,678 students, while the smallest group consists of undergraduate transfer students, with only 117 students enrolled.
The gender distribution reflects notable trends, particularly among the undergraduate freshmen, where female students represent 67.6% of the population compared to 32.4% male students. This trend continues with undergraduate seniors and transfer students, where female representation remains above 60%. In contrast, the graduate student group shows a significant gender imbalance, with only 24.5% male students, indicating a higher enrollment of female graduate students (75.5%).
Examining the racial and ethnic composition, detailed data for undergraduates is less comprehensive, but it paints a picture of diversity with various groups represented. The numbers suggest that while the university attracts a mix of students, there are disparities in representation among different ethnicities, especially in the context of the broader national discussions around diversity in higher education.
Overall, Fort Valley State University displays a strong female presence across all levels of study, which aligns with national patterns in higher education, where women are increasingly outnumbering men. This demographic trend could have implications for future university policies and outreach programs aimed at maintaining a balanced and inclusive educational environment.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Fort Valley State University
The age distribution of students at Fort Valley State University reveals interesting insights into the demographics of the student body. The largest age group is comprised of students aged 18-19, with a total of 900 students, which includes 294 male undergraduates and 606 female undergraduates. This indicates a strong influx of traditional college-age students, suggesting that the university is attracting a substantial number of fresh high school graduates.
Following this age group, the 20-21 cohort also shows a significant presence with 781 students, where the numbers are fairly balanced between male and female undergraduates. This trend reflects a common pattern in higher education, where many students pursue their undergraduate degrees immediately after high school.
As we move to older age groups, the numbers begin to drop significantly. For instance, the 22-24 age group has 516 students, and those aged 25-29 total just 132. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including life commitments such as employment and family responsibilities that may deter older individuals from pursuing further education.
Interestingly, the presence of graduate students, particularly in the 22-24 and 25-29 age brackets, indicates that some individuals are returning to academia after gaining work experience. The age distribution also highlights the university's appeal to non-traditional students, particularly in the 30-34 and 35-39 age brackets, where there is a modest representation.
Overall, this data underscores the importance of understanding age demographics in higher education, as it can influence curriculum development, student services, and recruitment strategies. As universities evolve to meet the needs of a diverse student population, this information will be vital in fostering an inclusive educational environment.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
4 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
30 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Declining International Enrollment at Fort Valley State University
The data from Fort Valley State University reveals a concerning trend in international student enrollment over the years. Starting from 2004, the university had a modest number of international undergraduates, which peaked at 35 in 2005. However, the numbers have significantly declined since then, reaching a low of just 2 international undergraduates in 2023, representing only 0.08% of the total undergraduate student body. This decline is alarming and raises questions about the university's outreach and support for international students.
In the graduate program, the situation shows some improvement in recent years, with an increase in the percentage of international students, peaking at 10.20% in 2023. This reflects a growing trend of attracting more graduate students, possibly due to targeted recruitment efforts or changes in program offerings that appeal to international scholars.
The overall decline in undergraduate international enrollment could be attributed to various factors, including changing immigration policies, competitive global education markets, and the university’s own marketing strategies. The pandemic may have played a role in this downward trend, as many students worldwide faced travel restrictions and uncertainties about studying abroad.
For Fort Valley State University, addressing these challenges is crucial. Enhancing support services for international students, improving recruitment efforts, and fostering a welcoming environment may help reverse this trend. As universities increasingly rely on international students for diversity and financial stability, it is essential for institutions like Fort Valley State to adapt and thrive in a competitive educational landscape.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$27,978
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $16,878
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $5,526
- Room and board
- $11,100
- Graduate tuition
- $18,268
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 6% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 40%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$109M
Expenses$105M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 113 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 28 | 22 |
| Volleyball | 21 | 18 |
| Basketball | 16 | 16 |
| Cross Country | 11 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Tennis | 9 | 7 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 106 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 29 | 24 |
| Volleyball | 21 | 18 |
| Basketball | 15 | 16 |
| Cross Country | 9 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Tennis | 7 | 7 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 83 | - |
| Volleyball | 20 | 17 |
| Basketball | 14 | 15 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 15 | 8 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Tennis | 6 | 6 |
| Cross Country | 5 | 6 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Mercer UniversityMacon · 24.7 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Agnes Scott CollegeDecatur · 88.2 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Spelman CollegeAtlanta · 88.6 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Georgia State UniversityAtlanta · 88.6 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Emory UniversityAtlanta · 90.1 mi
U.S. News #23
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main CampusAtlanta · 90.1 mi
U.S. News #29
-
Auburn UniversityAuburn · 92.8 mi
U.S. News #100
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 102.5 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Florida State UniversityTallahassee · 146.6 mi
U.S. News #59
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Fort Valley State University:
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Emory University - Ranked 24th in the 2024 US News rankings, Emory University is a prestigious research university located in Atlanta, Georgia. It is known for its strong programs in law, business, and medicine.
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - With a rank of 33, Georgia Tech is renowned for its engineering and technology programs. It is located in Atlanta and is a leading institution for innovation and research.
-
University of Georgia - Ranked 47th, the University of Georgia in Athens is one of the oldest public universities in the United States, offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across different fields.
-
Florida State University - This university is ranked 53rd and is known for its vibrant campus life and strong programs in the arts, sciences, and business.
-
Auburn University - Located in Auburn, Alabama, this institution is ranked 93rd and is recognized for its engineering, business, and agriculture programs.
-
Clemson University - Ranked 86th, Clemson is known for its strong emphasis on research and community engagement, particularly in engineering and agriculture.
-
Spelman College - Spelman College is a historically black women's college ranked 39th, recognized for its commitment to liberal arts education and social justice.
These universities not only provide a high-quality education but also contribute significantly to the academic and cultural landscape of the region.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Campus Crime Rates at Fort Valley State University
The crime data from Fort Valley State University reveals a concerning trend in campus safety over the years. From 2013 to 2023, the average number of incidents per 1,000 students has fluctuated significantly, peaking in 2018 with a rate of 26.89 incidents. This spike indicates a critical period for the university, requiring immediate attention to improve security and support for students.
One notable aspect is the increase in firearm-related arrests, alongside other incidents such as drug and alcohol-related arrests. In 2017, firearm arrests reached their highest count, which could correlate with broader national trends of increasing gun violence and the need for stricter campus safety measures. The data suggests that incidents of domestic violence and assault have also been persistent issues, reflecting societal problems that extend beyond campus boundaries.
The recent years show a slight decline in the overall rate of incidents, yet the figures remain alarmingly high, especially when compared to earlier years. The university must continue to implement programs aimed at reducing crime and enhancing student safety. Additionally, engaging with local law enforcement and community resources could provide a more comprehensive strategy to address these challenges.
In conclusion, while there has been some improvement, the ongoing high rates of crime on campus signal a need for sustained efforts in safety initiatives. The university community must prioritize the well-being of its students by creating a safer environment conducive to learning and personal growth. For further understanding of crime rate calculations, visit this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Fort Valley State University include Catherine Hardy Lavender (1952 Olympic 4×100m relay gold medalist), Benny Andrews (African American artist, activist and educator) and Walt Gilmore (Former NBA player, one season with Trail Blazers).
-
Catherine Hardy Lavender 1930–2017
1952 Olympic 4×100m relay gold medalist
-
Benny Andrews 1930–2006
African American artist, activist and educator
-
Walt Gilmore 1947–
Former NBA player, one season with Trail Blazers
-
Jo Ann Robinson 1912–1992
Civil rights activist behind the Montgomery Bus Boycott
-
Ricardo Lockette 1986–
Former Seattle Seahawks wide receiver
-
John Wesley Blassingame 1940–2000
Historian and pioneer in the study of American slavery
-
Robert Jones 1944–2010
Former mayor of Kalamazoo, Michigan
-
Calvin Smyre 1947–
Longest-serving member of the Georgia Legislature
-
Howard Nathaniel Lee 1934–
First African-American mayor of Chapel Hill, North Carolina
More alumni (1, by field)
Politics and law
-
Shirley Sherrod 1948–
Civil rights activist, former USDA Georgia director
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.